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Feast Day: August 20
Saint Gobert of Apremont, also known as Gobert II of Apremont, was a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 13th century. His life is characterized by his dedication to the Crusades and his subsequent journey towards the monastic life. Despite the limited information available, his life remains an inspiration for all who seek spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of one's faith. Born in the region of Apremont, France, Gobert was recognized as the Count of Apremont. As a member of the nobility, he was expected to pursue a life of power and prestige. However, Gobert's strong sense of duty and faith led him to answer the call of the Crusades. With a fervent desire to defend the Christian faith and liberate the Holy Land from the hands of the infidels, Gobert joined the Crusaders in their efforts. He fearlessly fought alongside his fellow soldiers, displaying unwavering courage and dedication to the cause. Gobert's noble demeanor and leadership skills soon gained him respect among the Crusader ranks. Upon his return from the Crusades, Gobert felt deeply moved by his experiences and decided to dedicate his life to a more spiritual path. He sought solace and guidance in the monastic life and entered the Benedictine Order at the renowned Villers Abbey in Brabant, Belgium. As a Benedictine monk, Gobert embraced a life of simplicity, prayer, and contemplation. He diligently studied the scriptures and sought to live out the teachings of Christ in his daily life. Gobert's commitment to the monastic ideals and his willingness to serve his brethren earned him great admiration among his fellow monks. Later, Gobert felt a profound call to join the Cistercian Order, known for its strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict and its emphasis on manual labor. He transferred to a Cistercian monastery to deepen his spiritual journey and embrace a life of humility and hard work. Throughout his life as a Cistercian monk, Gobert remained steadfast in his devotion to God and his commitment to the monastic community. He exemplified the virtues of obedience, simplicity, and self-sacrifice, inspiring his fellow monks to an ever-deeper commitment to their vocation. Saint Gobert of Apremont passed away peacefully in the year 1263, having lived a life dedicated to God and the pursuit of holiness. Although not formally recognized as a patron saint or commemorated on a widespread scale, his feast day is observed on August 20th, providing an opportunity for the faithful to remember his life and seek his intercession. While there may be limited information available about Saint Gobert of Apremont, his story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the call to wholeheartedly dedicate oneself to God's service. His life of noble valor as a Crusader and his subsequent journey towards the monastic life embody a profound example of spiritual growth, teaching us to prioritize our eternal relationship with God above all else.